I would prefer to show animals in the best light possible so that people can appreciate them for what they are, and then maybe they’ll care about them just a little bit extra than they would have otherwise.
Matthew Sullivan
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The fact that Matthew Sullivan has the determination to photograph alligators underwater should tell you all you need to know about this man. Based in the vibrant ecosystems of Florida, Matthew has developed a unique approach to conservation, capturing breathtaking images that reveal the hidden beauty of the natural world.
Matthew’s passion for photography began at a young age, encouraged by his fascination with wildlife and nature. This passion blossomed into a career that combines his love for the underwater world with his commitment to changing perceptions about wildlife. With no formal training, Matthew is entirely self-taught, showcasing his dedication to mastering his craft and sharing his vision with others.
In this episode, Matthew and I discuss:
- His inspiring journey from living in his car to becoming a professional photographer, proving that passion can lead to success against all odds.
- The exhilarating experiences of photographing wildlife underwater in their natural habitat and the unique challenges this poses.
- His philosophy on using photography to promote conservation, capturing animals in their best light to foster appreciation and understanding.
- The evolution of his creative process, including the technical aspects of underwater photography and the gear that makes it possible.
Matthew’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact passion and perseverance can have on one’s career and personal growth. His work offers a fresh perspective on wildlife, encouraging us all to look a little closer at the world around us.
Enjoy the episode 🙂
Q: If you could have a conversation with any animal, which would it be and what would you discuss?
Matthew Sullivan: Boy, that’s a cool question. I talk to animals a lot. Just recently, I was swimming with a very big, very old alligator. These creatures, like alligators and whales, live for so long. They’ve probably seen some pretty remarkable things. I think it’d be cool to hear their stories.
Q: Can you tell us about your journey into photography and how you evolved into your current work?
Matthew Sullivan: I’ve always been into wildlife, thanks to my dad. As a kid, I would bring home turtles and frogs, but as I grew older, I started taking pictures of them instead. Initially, it was just about recording what I saw. Around 2016 or 2017, I began focusing more on making compelling images, not just documenting. Now, it’s about creating pictures that everyone wants to look at and that benefit the subjects.
Q: How intimidating is it to swim with alligators, and how do you handle such encounters?
Matthew Sullivan: The first time I tried to photograph alligators underwater, it was much harder than I thought. Most of them are skittish and disappear as soon as you get in the water. But when we finally managed to find a big one, my heart was pounding like never before. It was an intense experience having the gator looking right at me. It’s risky, and I don’t condone swimming with them unless you have experience.
Find more of Matthew online!
The Underwater Photography Show
